2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC brings new models to the lineup and small updates
The current and second-generation of the GLC has been around since 2023, but Mercedes isn’t one to rest on their laurels. A new AMG Lite Package debuts for the GLC, adding unique 20-inch wheels and a roof spoiler.
A conventional, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model – the 350e – and high-performance hybrid model – the AMG GLC 63 S E Performance – both make their debut for the 2025 model year. The AMG makes an eye-blistering 671 horsepower, while the hybrid model does not. Between the expanded lineup and new styling cues, the new GLC line-up is now one of the most complete and versatile compact SUVs available today.
PHEV Mercedes-Benz GLC: A legitimate class leading contender in both range and value
If you’re considering a luxury PHEV SUV, I’m glad to say you have more options than ever. As one of the newer entrants, the GLC goes out of its way to impress you. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e arrives with 313 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, which is more than sufficient for its class. Mercedes says it will do the zero to 60 mph in around 6.2 seconds and travel up to 54 miles via electric power.
While the hybrid’s $59,900 base MSRP isn’t cheap (and no one truly expects a luxury brand Mercedes to be), it occupies a niche with not many peers. BMW, the closest and fiercest rival, offers the X3, which is even more expensive than the GLC while providing only 38 miles of range on a full charge. Volvo’s XC60 Recharge does compete at an identical price point and offers a ton more power, though providing just 35 miles of range.
Upscale And Versatile
Once inside the Mercedes-Benz GLC, you’ll love what you both see and feel. Starting with an 11.9-inch touchscreen offering the newest iteration of Mercedes’ software, quality materials occupy most of the touch points, and wood. Real honest to goodness wood.
For 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC also offers 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which for the market segment is fantastic. With the front seats set to my height of 5’11”, the second row seats provide plenty of headroom and legroom. For those who have to be a bit more family-minded, customers will definitely appreciate the new GLC.
Tech In The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC; Futuristic With Class
As I’ve said earlier, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 offers a German-minded, minimalist interior. In the real world, however, that translated to a heavy reliance on touchscreen functionality. From a personal standpoint, a better row of buttons will accomplish the task better. While the on-screen buttons are responsive, you occasionally feel the touch-sensitive button banks and other capacitive-touch “buttons” were imprecise and cheap-feeling. Additionally, I found that while driving I would need to take my focus off the road ahead to look at the screen. A row of traditional buttons creates a muscle memory that solves this problem.
Thankfully, the new GLC – offers easy and convenient phone pairing via wireless Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto), built-in navigation, parking cameras, comprehensive voice commands, and more as standard.
Final Thoughts On This Year’s Mercedes-Benz GLC
While the compact 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC sees incremental updates, a slight amount of tweaking would make this model “perfect”. The available hybrid model is of exceptionally good value, particularly for a segment starting to see overly inflated price points.
Though I haven’t had the opportunity to drive it yet, I’m anxiously looking forward to spending some time with the AMG GLC 63 variant. Abundant power, a whisper-quiet cabin, and classical styling make the Mercedes-Benz GLC easy to live with.
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